Thursday, October 29, 2009

The Cologne Cathedral

Some interesting info:

Construction began in 1248, but by 1560, political changes had taken place, and funds dried up. So all construction stopped until 1842.

There was a massive wooden crane on top of the south tower, that had already sat there for 150 years, when construction stopped. So the crane remained there until 1842. This crane became the symbol of Cologne and it dominated its skyline for 400 years. The timescales are mind-boggling. Entire generations lived and died, for four centuries, looking up at an idle construction relic from, even for them, ancient times.

Read the rest (and see pictures) here.

Replacing "should" with "could"

A powerful little tip.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Mature audience: Woman describes performing abortion while pregnant herself

A horrifying but illuminating read. (Warning: graphic descriptions of an abortion.)

Self-control and obedience: the important difference

This is one of the best posts I've read in a while, written by a Catholic mom struggling with fear in the midst of hyperemesis gravidarum.

You're hanging out with your kids...but are you really present?

Some good, challenging thoughts. An excerpt:

According to Ms. Brody, too many parents today are literally ignoring their infant and toddler-aged children, even though they may be walking or standing right beside them. How?

She reports seeing mothers and nannies all over her neighborhood tuning into their cell phones, Blackberrys and iPods. Though they might be technically spending "time" with their children, they're clearly distracted -- and missing out on a golden opportunity to nurture and invest in the young lives of those they love.

Read the rest here.

Pope holds up 12th century monk as model for Christians in a frenetic world

An inspiring message.

Monday, October 5, 2009

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Miniature earth

A fascinating video about what global demographic trends would look like if the earth only contained 100 people.

via Czech Chat